A Smart Buyer’s Guide: Which Is Better, Ready-to-Move or Under-Construction?

The real estate market in Pune remains one of the most dynamic and attractive in the country.

With a steady stream of new residential projects being launched across the city, homebuyers often find themselves at a crossroads: should they invest in an under-construction property or opt for a ready-to-move-in home?

Each option brings its own benefits and trade-offs depending on your needs, budget, and timeline. This guide will help you make a confident, informed choice.

Understanding Ready-to-Move Property

A ready-to-move property is exactly what it sounds like: a home that is complete in construction and available for immediate occupancy. Whether it’s a finished flat in a premium township or a standalone apartment in the city, what you see is what you get. You can physically inspect the property, evaluate the amenities, and calculate your living or rental returns right away.

Reasons to Choose Ready-to-Move Property

• Immediate Possession: Ideal if you're looking to move in without delays.
• No Rental Overlap: You save money by avoiding both EMI and rent payments.
• Transparency: You can inspect the property quality, surroundings, and actual layout before buying.
• GST Exemption: Ready homes are not subject to GST, unlike under-construction properties.
• Rental Income Potential: Start earning rent from day one if buying for investment.

Challenges You May Face with Ready-to-Move Property

• Higher Price Tag: Per square foot, ready homes usually cost more than under-construction projects in Pune.
• Limited Customisation: You’ll have to compromise on interiors or layout since everything is already built.
• Older Inventory Risk: Some ready homes may be in projects that have been unsold for a while.
• Reduced Choice: You might not get your preferred floor, facing, or configuration.

Understanding Under-Construction Property

Under-construction properties are homes that are still being built and usually come with an extended possession timeline. With the rise of new upcoming projects in Pune, buyers have a wide selection of designs, layouts, and price points to choose from. This is often the preferred option for budget-conscious or long-term investors who can wait for possession.

Reasons to Choose an Under-Construction Property

• Lower Initial Investment: These homes are usually priced lower than ready units in the same location.
• More Choices: Pick your preferred floor, direction, view, and layout.
• Payment Flexibility: Staggered payment plans ease the financial load.
• Customisation Opportunity: Some developers allow minor customisation during construction stages.
• High Appreciation Potential: Properties in developing areas often see better price appreciation by the time of possession.
• New Construction Quality: Being brand-new, the home requires less immediate maintenance.
• Early-Bird Advantage: Early investors often get better pricing and preferred unit selections.
• Tax Benefits: Buyers can claim tax deductions on both principal and interest, even during the construction phase, under certain sections.

Drawbacks of Buying an Under-Construction Property

• Possession Delays: Despite RERA regulations, project timelines can still stretch.
• GST Burden: A 5% GST is applicable, increasing your overall cost.
• Inconvenience from Construction: Expect noise and inconvenience from ongoing construction for a while.
• Market Fluctuations: Long construction timelines expose you to changing market conditions.

Under-Construction vs Ready-to-Move: The Key Differences

Before making a decision, it's important to compare these two options side by side.

1. Cost Comparison

• Ready-to-Move-In: Comes at a higher upfront cost but includes developed infrastructure and immediate usability.
• Under-Construction: Typically priced lower per sq. ft., making it more affordable, though hidden or rising construction costs may apply.

2. Risk Factors

• Ready-to-Move-In: Low risk with assured possession and minimal market fluctuation impact.
• Under-Construction: Involves higher risk due to potential delays and dependence on developer credibility.

3. Financing & Loan Considerations

• Ready-to-Move-In: Straightforward loan disbursal with standard EMI structure starting immediately.
• Under-Construction: Loans disbursed in stages; flexible payment plans available, but interest may accrue over time.

4. Investment Potential

• Ready-to-Move-In: Offers steady appreciation and immediate rental income in established localities.
• Under-Construction: Higher appreciation prospects, especially in upcoming areas, with better ROI after project completion.

5. Lifestyle & Convenience

• Ready-to-Move-In: Allows instant occupancy with access to developed social and civic infrastructure.
• Under-Construction: May lack immediate amenities and connectivity; full community experience develops over time.

6. Resale Value & Market Demand

• Ready-to-Move-In: Appeals to end-users wanting instant possession and clarity on property conditions.
• Under-Construction: Attracts investors targeting future value and resale in growing locations.

7. Environmental & Legal Aspects

• Ready-to-Move-In: Legal status and environmental clearances are easier to verify post-completion.
• Under-Construction: Requires thorough due diligence to ensure all approvals and compliances are in place.

Comparison Table

Tips to Select the Best Under-Construction Properties

• Amenities and Features: Choose projects that offer future-ready amenities like swimming pools, sports areas, smart home tech, and well-planned recreational spaces that align with your lifestyle needs.
• Customization: Look for developers who allow scope for minor interior customisations in layout or finishes during early construction stages.
• Legal Documentation: Ensure the builder provides clear and verified documents like land title, building approvals, environment clearances, and a commencement certificate.
• Payment Plan: Opt for construction-linked payment plans that ease financial burden and reduce risk if project delays occur.
• Budget and Affordability: Factor in not just the base cost, but also GST, registration, floor rise charges, and future maintenance when evaluating affordability.
• RERA Registration: Only consider RERA-registered projects to ensure accountability, transparency, and legal protection in case of delays or disputes.
• Under-Construction Projects: Evaluate the builder’s past track record, project delivery history, and reviews from previous buyers to gauge reliability.
• Financial Considerations: Check your loan eligibility and interest rates for under-construction properties, keeping in mind that EMIs may start before possession.
• Possession Time: Ensure the builder gives a realistic possession timeline and includes a delay clause with compensation in the agreement.

Which One is Best for You?

Choosing between under-construction vs ready-to-move homes depends on your financial position, urgency, and investment goals. If you are someone who wants to move in soon, avoid paying rent, or simply wants to see what you're buying before signing the cheque, a ready-to-move home is ideal for you. You can inspect the property, check the locality, and make an informed decision backed by tangible proof. Many completed properties in Pune today offer world-class amenities and premium lifestyle features, ready for instant possession.

On the other hand, if you are someone who’s planning ahead, looking for better value, or wants to enter Pune’s booming market with a strategic long-term investment, under-construction projects in Pune make a compelling case. With a lower upfront cost and flexible payment plans, these homes allow you to secure a good location in one of the new upcoming projects in Pune before prices soar even higher.

Conclusion

Whether you choose a ready-to-move apartment or an under-construction property, Pune’s real estate market is full of opportunities in 2025. The key is to align your choice with your lifestyle, financial plans, and long-term vision. From budget buyers to luxury seekers, Pune's growing skyline has something for everyone. Just make sure you know what you’re getting into, and you’ll be on the path to a smart investment.

At Aishwaryam Group, we’ve always believed that a home is more than just a structure; it’s a space where dreams take root. Since 2008, we’ve been redefining lifestyles by crafting homes that blend elegance with purpose. As trusted real estate developers in Pune, we take pride in putting our customers at the heart of everything we do.

This customer-first approach has helped us deliver 10+ completed projects, with 7+ more currently in progress and 6+ new upcoming projects in Pune on the horizon. Whether you're looking for thoughtfully designed spaces or vibrant communities, our new residential projects in Pune are built to bring joy, comfort, and lasting value to every homeowner.